Originally Posted by
Predator
Not long back from the match. King sets up 4-2-3-1 and it worked. Quite a few things stood out to me; Both McLoughlin and McCarey had strangely dodgy moments in goal. Towell was a beast in the middle - he's a tireless Gattuso-type with a bit of skill. Connolly was much better in midfield than at right back. Brady was just outstanding. He started and finished the move for the first goal and won the penalty after a tremendously skillful touch from a goalkeeper kickout. He is very competent in the air and, importantly, works hard to track back for the team, driving forward on the counter. Clifford seemed like he was already in Dublin. Doran's work-rate was impressive.
If King was unsure between Canavan or Duffy to partner Keirnan for Hungary, he can be sure now. Canavan unfortunately had a bit of a nightmare - he almost scored an own goal and later kicked the ground, gifting possession to Austria outside the box - and it affected the defence. Duffy on the other hand had quite a solid half. He looked very calm on the ball and that confidence was evident in the Kiernan-Duffy partnership as the defence showed much more composure and organisation. He blocked a shot that was destined for the top corner with McCarey beaten and was a serious threat in the opposition box. White looked impressive, as did Gunning and Stevens did not look at all out of place in the back four. Oyebanjo was decent, but it was evident that he is playing at a lower level.
Ireland were always the better team and never looked like losing. The Austrian free leading to the goal was never a free, but what can you expect with IFA referees? :) I was pleased with the crowd and look forward to seeing youth games being staged all around Ireland, including, perhaps, The Brandywell.